Map of England showing where the Quartey arms are recorded
The Quartey arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Quartey arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Quartey Family in England
The history of the Quartey family name is deeply connected to the movement of people during the early seventeenth century. Records confirm that members of the family were established in the city of York by 1620, placing them in England during a time of significant social and economic change. While the name is often associated with West African origins, its presence in Northern England during the early modern period suggests a long history of migration and integration into local communities. Families like the Quarteys living in York at this time were often part of the growing merchant or artisan classes who helped shape the city’s trade and culture. By settling in such a prominent historical hub, these early family members became part of the diverse fabric of English society long before the modern era.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Kwarte
A name derived from the Ga language meaning fourth-born son.
This name
QuarteyA Ghanaian surname traditionally given to a male child born fourth in the family.
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records
City of York Archives, York City Council Minutes and Chamberlains' Accounts
Palliser, D. M., Tudor York, 1979
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lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
